Chicken Kofta with Creamy Yogurt Sauce

I first discovered chicken kofta with creamy yogurt sauce on a warm summer evening when I wanted something that felt indulgent but still light. I had a few leftover herbs in the fridge and some ground chicken waiting to be used. Instead of defaulting to my usual stir-fry, I thought—why not try something new that blends spices and freshness? From the first bite, I knew I had stumbled on a winner.

What makes this recipe so special is how effortlessly it comes together while tasting like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. The koftas are juicy and packed with bold herbs and garlic then balanced by a cooling, tangy yogurt sauce. Every time I serve these skewers at gatherings or weeknight dinners they disappear quickly because they offer that perfect bite—rich yet refreshing and full of flavor!

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground chicken – The star of the dish that creates juicy and flavorful kofta.
• Garlic – Infuses the koftas with sharp, bold depth.
• Fresh parsley – Brings a pop of color and earthy freshness.
• Onion – Helps add moisture and gentle sweetness.
• Ground cumin – Lends a warm, nutty spice.
• Paprika – Adds mild heat and smoky undertones.
• Salt – Brings out all the individual flavors.
• Black pepper – Gives a bit of bite and warmth.
• Greek yogurt – Acts as the creamy base for the cooling sauce.
• Lemon juice – Brightens the yogurt with zesty tang.
• Olive oil – Smooths out the sauce and enhances flavor.
• Fresh dill or mint – Adds a vibrant herbal note to the sauce.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls – For combining your chicken mixture and yogurt sauce separately.
• Grater or food processor – To finely grate or blend the onion for extra moisture.
• Skewers – Perfect for shaping and cooking the kofta evenly.
• Frying pan or grill pan – To sear the koftas until they’re golden and cooked through.
• Tongs – For flipping the skewers safely and easily.
• Serving plate – For a beautiful presentation alongside your creamy yogurt sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

I begin by placing the ground chicken into a large mixing bowl. Then, I add finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. I mix it all gently with my hands until everything is well combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the koftas tender.

Step 2: Shape and Skewer

Next, I wet my hands lightly (to avoid sticking) and form small oval-shaped patties. I gently press them onto skewers. If you’re not using skewers, you can form them into meatballs or patties instead.

Step 3: Cook the Koftas

I heat a bit of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Then, I cook the koftas in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. You can also grill them if you prefer a smoky flavor.

Step 4: Make the Yogurt Sauce

While the koftas are cooking, I whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and finely chopped fresh dill or mint in a small bowl. I like to finish it with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of cracked pepper on top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

I arrange the koftas on a plate and serve them warm with the yogurt sauce on the side for dipping—or sometimes I drizzle it right over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs for a final touch!

Tips

I recommend chilling the shaped koftas in the fridge for 20 minutes before cooking—they hold their shape better this way.

You can easily swap chicken for ground turkey or lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.

If you’re cooking on a grill, soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning.

Ways to Serve

Serve in a pita with lettuce, tomato, and extra yogurt sauce for a delicious wrap.

Pair with a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing Mediterranean-style meal.

I love plating these koftas with rice pilaf or couscous for a satisfying dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Kofta with Creamy Yogurt Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! I often shape the koftas and mix the yogurt sauce the night before. Store both in the fridge and cook fresh when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the chicken koftas?

Absolutely. I freeze them uncooked on a tray then transfer to a bag. When I need a quick dinner, I cook them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes.

What type of yogurt is best for Chicken Kofta with Creamy Yogurt Sauce?

I always go with full-fat Greek yogurt. It’s thick, creamy, and holds up beautifully as a sauce.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this chicken kofta with creamy yogurt sauce a try! It’s one of those recipes that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to pull off. Let me know how it turns out for you or if you try any fun variations. I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations!

Happy Cooking!

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